Natural Supplements
Practitioners of herbal medicine recommend several preparations that you can use to deal with the symptoms of cold sores and herpes. These preparations either relieve the pain and itchiness of the sores or help to reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
You can apply aloe vera to the sores for pain relief. To reduce the frequency of outbreaks, you have to bulk up your immune system. Echinacea is good for that. You can take two capsules of it three times each day or drink three to four cups of echinacea tea daily. Keep in mind, these methods have little or no scientific research to prove their effectiveness.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may provide relief. Acupuncture is a type of Chinese traditional medicine that involves pricking the skin with needles. Among the many reasons people get acupuncture is for pain relief, which is why it may be an option for the pain that accompanies herpes sores. If you have frequent outbreaks, some practitioners believe acupuncture can decrease outbreaks and the severity of them.
Home Care
Keep blisters clean to promote healing and avoid secondary bacterial infection. You should keep sores as dry as possible, unless you find that an ointment or gel like aloe vera provides relief. In the case of genital herpes, take hot baths and aspirin for pain relief.
Tags: pain relief, aloe vera, cold sores, frequency outbreaks, reduce frequency, reduce frequency outbreaks, sores herpes